How to Plan Your Trip to Cuba from Canada: Complete Guide

Cuba is one of the most popular destinations for Canadians, thanks to its tropical climate, rich culture and geographical proximity. Planning your trip from Canada can be simple if you know what steps to take. From booking flights to knowing the entry regulations, here’s a complete guide that will make your island adventure unforgettable.

To travel is to discover that we are all part of the same world, but each place has its own magic.

Why is Cuba a perfect destination for Canadians?

1️⃣ Year-round tropical climate: Escape the Canadian cold and enjoy the Caribbean sun.
2️⃣ Proximity: A direct flight of only a few hours separates you from the island.
3️⃣ Unique cultural experience: Salsa rhythms, colonial architecture and the warmth of the Cuban people await you.
4️⃣ Historical relationship: Canada has maintained a close relationship with Cuba, which facilitates travel.

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Steps to plan your trip to Cuba

Define your itinerary

Before booking, think about what kind of experience you want:

• 🌴 Beaches: Varadero, Cayo Coco or Cayo Santa Maria.
• 🏙️ Cities: Havana, Santiago de Cuba or Trinidad.
• Nature: Viñales, Baracoa or Topes de Collantes.

Book your flights

• Main airports in Cuba: Havana (HAV), Varadero (VRA) and Santiago de Cuba (SCU).
• Recommended airlines: Air Canada, Sunwing and WestJet offer direct flights from several Canadian cities such as Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.

Tip: Book in advance to get better prices, especially if you are traveling in high season (December-March).

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Entry requirements to Cuba from Canada

Tourist card (visa)

• Canadians need a tourist card to enter Cuba.
• This can be obtained through your airline, a travel agency or at the airport before your flight.

Medical insurance

Cuba requires all visitors to have valid medical insurance.

• Options: Check if your Canadian insurance covers emergencies in Cuba or purchase a temporary one before traveling.

Valid passport

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of your entry.

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What to pack for your trip

1️⃣Light clothing: Cuba has a warm climate, so wear comfortable and breathable clothing.
2️⃣ Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
3️⃣ Basic items:

• Plug adapter (Cuba uses 110V and 220V).
• Basic medicines, as some may be hard to find.
• 4️⃣ Cash: The Canadian dollar is not accepted in Cuba, but you can exchange it for Cuban pesos (CUP) at the airport or authorized exchange houses.

Tip: Avoid credit cards linked to U.S. banks, as they do not always work in Cuba.

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Transportation in Cuba

• Opciones principales:
  • 🚌 Tourist buses: The company Viazul connects the main cities of the island.
  • 🚖 Taxis: Be sure to negotiate the price before getting in.
  • 🚗 Car rentals: Ideal for exploring at your own pace, but book ahead of time.
• Local alternatives:
  • Coco cabs and bicycle cabs in the cities for short trips.

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Lodging in Cuba

Hotels

• Varadero and Havana have a wide variety of resorts and hotels.
• If you are looking for luxury, chains such as Meliá and Iberostar are an excellent option.

Private homes

• A more economical and authentic option to meet Cubans.
• Search on platforms such as Airbnb or direct reservations upon arrival.

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Experiences not to be missed

1️⃣ Walk along the Malecon: Enjoy the sea breeze in Havana.
2️⃣ Visit Viñales: Discover the famous mogotes and tobacco plantations.
3️⃣ Dine at a paladar: Try authentic dishes like ropa vieja and lobster.
4️⃣ Dance salsa: Music is everywhere, so don’t be afraid to move!

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Budget for your trip

1️⃣Lodging: Private homes from $30 CAD per night; hotels from $80 CAD.
2️⃣ Food: Meals at paladares for $10-$20 CAD.
3️⃣ Transportation: Viazul for $20-$50 CAD depending on route; cabs from $10 CAD.
4️⃣ Extras: Tours, museum tickets and gifts.

Tip: Change enough cash to cover your daily expenses, as cards may not be accepted everywhere.

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Tips to make the most of your trip

1️⃣ Be flexible: The pace in Cuba can be different than in Canada, adapt and enjoy!
2️⃣ Talk to the locals: Cubans are friendly and always willing to share stories.
3️⃣ Support local commerce: Buy handicrafts, eat in paladares and choose casas particulares.
4️⃣ Get informed: Research the culture and customs before you travel.

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Planning your trip to Cuba from Canada can be easy if you follow this guide. The island offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history and human warmth that makes it an unforgettable destination.